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Leathered Granite Countertops: All You Need to Know

Jan 16, 2023

Are you considering a granite countertop for your kitchen or bathroom?

If so, then you should consider leathered granite countertops — this unique material has the same beauty and durability as traditional granite but with an added touch of sophistication.

Leathered granite is becoming increasingly popular due to its distinctive look and feel. In this article, we’ll discuss all the important information that you need to know about leathered granite counters – from installation tips to maintenance advice.

With just a little bit of help and background knowledge, you can make sure that your new leathered counters will last for years to come!

If you’d prefer to use black quartz instead, feel free to check out this blog from Caesarstone to get the inside scoop on the latest design trends and ideas.

What Are Leathered Granite Countertops and Why Are They Popular?

Leathered granite counters are special types of countertops made from granite. They look and feel different from regular granite and are becoming more popular.

Unlike traditional granite countertops, they are textured with a leather-like finish that provides a softer, less glossy surface. This finish is created using a process known as “leathering” which involves polishing the stone with diamond abrasives.

These high-quality countertops can last for a very long time if you take care of them properly.

Advantages of Leathered Granite Countertops

Leathered granite counters offer many advantages over traditional granite. Some of these advantages include:

Texture

Their unique texture provides a subtle look and feel, making them ideal for use in both contemporary or classic settings. The leathering technique used to produce the surface also results in an incredibly durable surface that is more resistant to scratches and other damage.

Additionally, leathered black granite countertops are easier to clean than traditional granite; the leather finish helps repel liquids and food particles, meaning you don’t need to use as much soap or cleaning solution. This can save time when preparing meals or cleaning up after dinner.

Low Maintenance

Another advantage of leathered granite counters is their low maintenance requirements. Since there is no shine or glossy finish on these surfaces, they require less frequent polishing and sealing than regular granite countertops. This makes them a great option for busy households where people don’t have the time to clean regularly.

Plus, since leathered countertops don’t require sealing like traditional stone slabs do, they can develop a patina over time that adds character and charm to your kitchen or bathroom space.

Reduce Noise Levels in Home

Finally, leathered granite countertops are unique in that they can help reduce noise levels in your home by absorbing sound waves rather than reflecting them back into the room. This means you won’t have to worry about loud dishes clanging against each other when you put them away or wash them up after meals.

The softer texture also helps keep condensation from pooling on top of the surface, which can be a common issue with regular stone counters.

Installation Tips for Leathered Granite Countertops

Make sure that you use the following installation tips if you want to ensure that your leathered granite counters are installed properly:

● Carefully measure the dimensions of your countertop space before purchase to make sure you get the right size slab.

● Install black leathered granite countertops on a flat, level surface with adequate support so they don’t become uneven over time.

● Choose a professional installer who has experience working with stone slabs and is familiar with the specific installation process for leathered counters.

● Use high-quality adhesive or mortar to secure the countertops in place and ensure that they are properly sealed and protected from moisture damage.

● Make sure to use felt padding underneath appliances like microwaves or dishwashers if they will be sitting directly on top of your new leathered counters.

● Clean up any excess silicone caulk or sealant immediately after installation to avoid discolouration or other damage caused by prolonged exposure to these materials.

● Make sure that all seams between pieces of stone have been filled correctly, as this helps prevent water seepage around them which can lead to mold growth over time.

● Let newly installed leathered granite counters dry completely before using them.

Maintenance Advice for Leathered Granite Countertops

You can keep your new leathered counters in tip-top shape if you use the following maintenance tips:

● Wipe away spills and food particles immediately to prevent staining.

● Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach or abrasive cleaning products on the surface of the countertop since these can damage the leather finish over time.

● Use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild dish soap to clean up any dirt or residue that builds up around your leathered granite counters.

● Avoid placing hot items directly on top of leathered granite counters, as this can cause discolouration and fading over time because of heat exposure.

● Use coasters underneath glasses, mugs, bottles or other objects that contain liquids in order to protect your countertops from stains caused by condensation build-up due to temperature changes between items being placed on them.

● Reapply sealant every year if you want extra protection against liquid penetration into the stone surface; this will also help keep it looking its best for longer periods of time!

● Polishing may be necessary occasionally depending on how much traffic is seen in areas where your leather granite countertops are located; always use a polishing agent specifically designed for stone surfaces when doing so.